Stoke's Unsung Heroes #3: Anya Parker James

Sustainable fashion designer Anya has popped up in Urban Outfitters and loves nothing more than a walk and lunch at Hetty's Tea Rooms…

Anya’s clothes are handmade in Staffordshire

• Where do you live and why do you love it?
  I live in Fulford, near Stone, and being surrounded by beautiful countryside helps boost my creativity. I love the location of Stoke, as being so close to places like Manchester and Nottingham is so handy. I also like being near to the Peak District as there’s so many great walks.
  

• You take a sustainable approach to fashion, using deadstock and vintage fabrics. Can you tell us a bit about your business and what inspired you to set it up?
  Once I graduated from Leicester Demontfort university in 2018, I struggled to find any jobs in fashion that didn’t require moving to London or another big city and knew I didn’t want to relocate after three years of living in Leicester. So I decided to start gathering vintage and deadstock fabrics – that would have ended up in landfill – and quickly got inspired. 

Anya’s signature smock dresses, pearl mesh tops and ‘Pig Girl’ t-shirts

• What are your proudest moments since you started the business?
  I think one of my proudest moments would be my collaboration with [Brighton-based brand] Maí Accents, as this opened up an international market for me very early on in my business. Another would have to be popping up in different Urban Outfitters [Anya’s designs have appeared in stores in London, Liverpool, Nottingham and Manchester] and meeting my customers in real life.

This stylish shoot was completed at The Grosvenor Restaurant, Hales Hall

• What do you like to do in Stoke when you’re not designing?
  I love to go on walks in the countryside, followed by some lunch at a cafe. I particularly like Hetty’s Tea Shop in Froghall, and the Red Brick Cafe over in Blythe Bridge.
  

• Who are your your favouite brands from Stoke?
  Some of my favourite Stokie brands would have to be my fellow small business friends, who include Newcastle photography studio Peachy Pictures, Stone candle shop The Wandering Bee and accessory brand Ay That’s Nice, which makes handmade tote bags and hair accessories.
  

• Where can readers purchase your creations?

  Via our website or on the Instagram page.

Anya’s signature smock drop is available in gingham, florals and more

Do you want to nominate someone for The Knot’s ‘Stoke’s Unsung Heroes’ column? We’d love to hear from you! Email james@theknot.group with your suggestions